In the past few weeks a number of people have said that with the increasing economic pressure on their purse and the demands of life that they are finding it harder and harder to relax. The noise of daily life with its physical and emotional pressures can’t take its toll over time. Left unchecked it can become a real problem affecting our sleep, our mood and even our health. We often find ourselves lashing out in anger and frustration; we can get upset about the smallest thing.
So given that there is less money to join a gym, go out for a meal or buy ourselves something nice what can be done to reduce your stress level and control any problems? It would be great to step back and see the big picture, yet a myriad of things seem to get in the way. You seem to have completely run out of resources with no way to recharge your batteries.
We hanker after a simple life, where life was less complicated and less hectic. Yet how are you to find that safe harbour that you can relax in. So often it feels in life like we are running uphill – against a headwind. We begin to get exhausted. How great it is if we have a friend to run in front so we can run in their slipstream. What can we use to help us slipstream through our problems?
By letting our body and mind rest we can be ready for what life throws at us. Many find that as little as 10 minutes space a day can help. But where do you find the time? Perhaps you could get up 10 minutes early, or later at night. Perhaps the time is during lunchtime even when you are travelling in the car or the bus.
Let’s imagine that you can find 10 minutes, what do you do with it? That can be a daunting project. If you are a busy person, then the thought of nothing can seem difficult. The break is to let you mentally and physically let go. One of the best ways to do this is to relax.
To relax: find somewhere you feel is safe. Begin by taking deep breaths breath in counting to 4, hold for 2 then out for 5. As you practice this a gentle rhythm starts to work on your body and calm the stress levels. Inevitably thoughts will arise but you can but gently push, they will be there in later. As you relax let go of the tension in your shoulders, neck and forehead. Just take the break then go back to your life.
A word of warning though, one break is not going to do it regular practice is what will help. Although relaxing is a good way to spend you break just remember that reading a boo, taking a warm bath or going for a walk is just as good. After all you have worked hard you deserve a break, especially if you hope to support others.
If you still find it a problem perhaps you need help from outside to get your life back in balance, a friend, family, your GP or a counsellor. It is possible to manage the stress and get balance in your life, you just need to care for yourself as much as you care for others.
